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Andrew Ritter’s story is one of those that sticks with you. In 2009, he graduated from Jackson Academy, where he was already making waves on the football field. His skills as a kicker landed him a spot at Ole Miss, where he played for four years, including a redshirt year. The highlight? Kicking the game-winning field goal against LSU, a moment Ole Miss fans won’t forget anytime soon.
Jackson Academy has awarded this year’s Distinguished Alumni Award to Ashley Edmonson Willson ’87. The award is presented annually to an alumna or alumnus leading a life of purpose and significance through professional achievement, service to the community, or loyalty to JA. Eligible nominees are JA graduates who have been an alumna or alumnus for at least 10 years before being nominated for the Distinguished Alumni Award.
William Trevor “Trey” Carroll ’09 traveled a circuitous route to settle on his career. Along this path, he experienced a surprising health challenge that diverted his course but helped him choose his life’s work. He now helps individuals find a more direct way to a satisfying occupation.
Meredith Montgomery Travelstead, M.D. ’89 has been a champion for women’s health as a Jackson area OBGYN, supporting and educating women in all stages of life.
Endeavors students pursue in high school and college can lead to opportunities they cannot foresee, said Brad Edwards ’89. That’s how he sees his career trajectory. Edwards visited Jackson Academy’s broadcasting class Wednesday while on tour for his recently released book, “Dynasty by the Numbers,” a historical perspective of the University of Alabama’s 13-year dominance in collegiate football.
Jackson Academy 2021 graduate Alice Williams was named USA Today’s “I Am Sport” recipient for Mississippi. “I Am Sport” is the largest high school sports recognition program in the country.
The Book of Kells at Trinity College in Dublin is a treasured series of lavishly illustrated Latin manuscripts of the Gospels. The Greek island, Oia, is one of the most photographed places on the planet. These iconic sights are on the itineraries of JA’s two upcoming study abroad trips.
His inspiring address in conjunction with Senior Class Awards Day gave upcoming graduates five lessons that were applicable immediately—and are enduring. Calvin Thigpen, M.D., ‘94, who is vice-chair for education for the University of Mississippi Medical Center Department of Medicine, associate professor of medicine, and program director for the internal medicine residency program, is the second recipient of the Jackson Academy’s Distinguished Alumni of the Year award. JA’s first recipient was Phillip Bowman ‘86. It is now the tradition that the Distinguished Alumni of the Year recipient presents to the senior class at their annual awards night dinner. Thigpen spoke on April 26 at The South in Jackson.
On Monday, Belmont University advanced in the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament in an upset win over No. 5 seed Gonzaga. One of the key players on Belmont’s team is 2017 JA graduate Conley Chinn.
An interest explored or a skill developed while at JA often leads graduates to a career that fits precisely with their gifts. Six JA alumni from California to New York recently shared a bit about their career choices and how JA influenced their paths.